Prime Minister Narendra Modi's two-day visit to Russia was nothing short of historic. It's certain that numerous deals were discussed, but it's the prestigious civilian award presented by President Vladimir Putin that truly distinguishes this visit. Reflect upon why a Russian civil award was granted to a foreign leader like PM Modi, and explore whether India has a similar distinction.
Let's begin with the award from Russia granted to the Prime Minister, named the Order of St. Andrew the Apostle. PM Modi was honored for his exceptional contribution to strengthening India-Russia relations. This honor, dating back to the 17th century, is Russia's topmost award, given to both natives and foreigners. Political figures have seldom received it, but it is more commonly awarded to those in the arts and culture.
International Awards Received by PM Modi
Several months ago, PM Modi was recognized with Bhutan's top honor, the Order of the Druk Gyalpo, marking the first such acknowledgment for a non-Bhutanese. Since his first term as Prime Minister, he has received 14 international honors, notably from predominantly Muslim countries, like UAE, Afghanistan, Bahrain, and Saudi Arabia.
Source: aajtak
A country offers its highest civilian award to foreign dignitaries typically for their pivotal role in fostering strong international ties, as well as notable contributions to art, science, or literature. The leaders of France, Egypt, Fiji, Papua New Guinea, Palau, the USA, Bahrain, Maldives, the United Arab Emirates, Palestine, Afghanistan, and Saudi Arabia have also honored the Prime Minister.
India's Highest Civilian Award
In India, the Bharat Ratna is recognized as the pinnacle of civil honor. Since its inception by then-President Dr. Rajendra Prasad in 1954, the award has been bestowed upon both living and posthumous figures.
The stature of this accolade is such that recipients are VIPs with the status of Cabinet Ministers, enjoy tax-free income and are special guests at national functions, receiving the same respect and privileges in all Indian states. Travel by air and train for them becomes complimentary.
Bharat Ratna Bestowed on Foreigners Too
Despite its name, the Bharat Ratna is not exclusively for Indian nationals; foreigners such as Mother Teresa, Nelson Mandela, and Pakistan's Abdul Ghaffar Khan have also been honored. Although Mother Teresa became a naturalized Indian citizen, Abdul Ghaffar Khan was recognized as a freedom fighter already settled in Pakistan when the award was bestowed.
Selection Process of Bharat Ratna
The process for India's highest civilian award begins with the Prime Minister preparing a list to be presented to the President, who makes the final decision.
Controversies Surrounding the Award
Like any prestigious accolade, the Bharat Ratna has not been immune to controversy. Twice has its conferment been halted – during the emergency in the 1970s and following legal challenges to its validity in 1992. Only after the Supreme Court's decision could the awards resume.
The Bharat Ratna sometimes faces scrutiny, especially regarding political figures, with the opposition often accusing the ruling party of favoritism.
